How do you shrug off a close call?

[Trek420]

This is true. She did get rattled. She came to a stop once in her lane, even though there was no collision, clearly because she was surprised and confused. We not-so-nicely yelled obscenities at her, but you know, that's what happens when your adrenaline shoots way up.

I don't actually think that a front light would have helped in that situation, but I may get one anyway just so I can feel a little better about doing SOMETHING.

I'm glad the driver stopped. I am so sorry this happened to you.

We take a risk each day just getting out of bed. I ride to work about once a week, a car free route that parallels my drive. It's the four days I drive the route that makes me nervous; 4 lanes, fast traffic, no divider. There are often head on accidents. A few weeks ago a close friend was rear ended on the route while driving. The obviously distracted driver hit her hard enought that her car flipped over, spun 180, hit the embankment and flipped back on her wheels.

She's fine though still finding tiny bits of glass in her hair.

Every day above ground is a bonus and a day we should ride.

[fallstoclimb]

Every day above ground is a bonus and a day we should ride.

OH. Yes, THIS! This is what I was looking for. People elsewhere told me to be grateful I was alive, and instead I was focusing on the what-ifs and how to limit risk - but this shift in thinking just clicked for me. I've seen enough now to see lots of freak accidents, awful things, but I have focused on the fear rather than the gratitude. Thank you.

[azfiddle]

So happy you are safe. Sounds like good advice to focus on the positive.

[fallstoclimb]

Trek420, thanks again for the advice. You actually inspired me to write a whole blog post on this

http://www.mindfulriot.com/suddenly-...and-gratitude/